Latest News

Rock & Roll Offroad Brings a Monster 2011 Dodge Ram 6.7 Liter Diesel to SEMA

Rock & Roll Offroad's 2011 Dodge Ram 6.7 liter diesel display vehicle for SEMA 2012
Rock & Roll Offroad's 2011 Dodge Ram 6.7 liter diesel display vehicle for SEMA 2012
Recently, the Las Vegas Convention Center was turned into the custom car capitol of the world as it hosted the 2012 SEMA show. Manufacturers, racers and custom vehicles from every corner of the globe made the pilgrimage for a full week of honoring the patrons, dealers and vehicles of the aftermarket. Among the hundreds of unique cars and trucks spanning nearly every make and model was Jared Pugh and Kha Ly of Rock & Roll Offroad with a newly completed project 2011 Dodge 6.7L diesel.

SEMA welcomes all sorts of show vehicles, even this 2011 Dodge Ram 6.7 liter diesel
SEMA welcomes all sorts of show vehicles, even this 2011 Dodge Ram 6.7 liter diesel
R&R Offroad is no rookie when it comes to SEMA. "R&R has been a part of SEMA for 9 years now. We rely on a team to come together last minute for SEMA projects," said Jared. "We are the experts at making a project from a dream on paper to the finished project."

This 2011 Dodge Ram Diesel was selcted for display during the 2012 SEMA show
This 2011 Dodge Ram Diesel was selcted for display during the 2012 SEMA show
When asked about the inspiration and theme of the Ram, Pugh stated that they wanted something that hasn't been done before. "We wanted… a vehicle that turned heads for our industry." And Jared and his team have done just that. With modifications to the intake, exhaust, wheels, suspension, along with other extensive performance, external and interior mods, this 2011 Ram is a monster to be reckoned with.

Suspension, wheels, tires, paint and accessories is all it took for this 2011 Ram 6.7 liter diesel to be displayed at SEMA 2012
Suspension, wheels, tires, paint and accessories is all it took for this 2011 Ram 6.7 liter diesel to be displayed at SEMA 2012
Rock & Roll Offroad also knows how important a role quality plays in a build by using some of the best aftermarket parts available, like K&N performance air filters. "We used K&N products when we first started using an FIPK kit on a 1999 Chevy 5.3 with huge gains and results."

Sponsors were proud to help R&R Offroad build this 2011 Dodge Ram diesel for SEMA 2012
Sponsors were proud to help R&R Offroad build this 2011 Dodge Ram diesel for SEMA 2012
Rock and Roll went on to say that they were excited to continue being the best in the industry and looking forward to turning out some awesome projects and "live life to the fullest." R&R Offroad's Dodge can also be seen in select issues of 8Lug magazine among other industry periodicals.

Some other similar SEMA show vehicles from prior years include the 2009 SEMA Green Ram 4X4 and 2010 Golden Dodge Ram

 Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.

Full Time Sheriff's Deputies Build a 1932 Ford Roadster for the 2012 SEMA Show Debut

The twin turbo setup on this 1932 Ford displayed at SEMA 2012 takes advantage of the room in front of the motor, to get the optimum air flow
The twin turbo setup on this 1932 Ford displayed at SEMA 2012 takes advantage of the room in front of the motor, to get the optimum air flow
Dave Timm and Brian Walker are more than just co-workers and business partners, they are brothers as well. They own 2 Brothers Custom Trucks out of Springfield, Illinois, and also work full time as Deputies at the local Sheriff's office. 2 Brothers Custom Trucks was started in 2006, and has been growing ever since. While they specialize in the restoration of classic trucks, they are no strangers to other projects like this 1932 Ford Roadster.
A universal K&N Filter peeking over the headlights on the 1932 Ford during 2012 SEMA Show
A universal K&N Filter peeking over the headlights on the 1932 Ford during 2012 SEMA Show


In 2010, Brian's Uncle, Jim Walker started restoring the car. Jim started this project as a traditional hot rod development, and completed about 50% of it until he passed away in early 2012 due to cancer. Brian purchased the car, and the two brothers made it their mission to get this Hot Rod to SEMA. Brian was motivated to finish this build in time, even while juggling his running business, being a full-time sheriff, and spending time with his wife and kids. With over 17 years of SEMA experience between them, they're sure to end up in the spotlight. The past five vehicles built by 2 Brothers Custom Trucks have drawn a lot of attention at the show and have been featured in magazines as well.

When building this project, Dave and Brian made it a point to keep the classic "Hot Rod" looks while adding a little bit of style to the build as well. From the twin turbo LS motor to the Teas Designs bench seat, this 1932 has the best of both worlds; speed and beauty! On top of that, each turbo is equipped with a K&N universal cone air filter (part number RC-5149) to provide premium filtration and maximum airflow. K&N filters were also used on this hot rod for the valve cover breathers, fuel cell vent breather, and rear axle vent. Dave explained that he chooses K&N because of its quality product and affordable price and claims, "K&N performs to the level it says it will."

K&N remains supportive of builders like Dave and Brian. It takes a lot of hard work, time, and patience to complete a project like this. Dave and Brian not only completed this build on time, but also completed their duties at the Sheriff's Office, and maintained their relationships with their families as well. They deserve a load of credit for that accomplishment.

1932 Ford Roadster modifications:
-Kilboure fiberglass body
-Heidts Hot Rod and Muscle Car Parts super ride ifs and four link rear suspension with a 9 inch ford rearend
-Raceline burst wheels, 22x10 rear, 20x8.5 front
The 1932 Ford looks great in the Autometer booth at SEMA 2012
The 1932 Ford looks great in the Autometer booth at SEMA 2012
-BFG kdw 2 tires, 305 40 22 rear, 245 30 20 front
-Turn Key Engine Supply 5.3 liter aluminum block (400 horse naturally aspirated )
-Turbo 350 transmission built by Steves Transmissions springfield illinois
-Holley hi ram intake with holley 90mm throttle body,polished valve covers and fuel rails
-Aeromotive stealth fuel system including a 1000 pgh pump, filters, 8an steel braided line and fittings
-Twin Turbonetics billet GTK turbos, Turbonetics Godzilla blow off valve and Turbonetics Evolution 35 wastegates
-Tuff stuff performance accessories chrome starter, water pump, alternator and master cylinder/booster combo
-Msd plug wires, Msd coil packs
-Auto Meter custom shop gauges, Auto Meter gps speedo interface module
-Kicker audio comp vx 10 inch subwoofer, ks 65.2 components, ix1000.5 amplifier, pxi 50.2 ipod controller, wiring
-Raceline burst steering wheel
-Teas Designs bench seat
-Schroth seat belts
-BASF Diamont paint with BASF Glamour clear, body work and paint by Nick Kieffer
-Lokar throttle cable and transmission dipstick
-K & N air filters
-B & M magnum grip shifter
-Billet Badges
-American Autowire Highway 22
-Action Machine Inc aluminum driveshaft

Some other similar SEMA show vehicles from prior years include the Slick's Garage 1932 Ford and Mitch Henderson's 1937 Ford,

Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.

Crawford Performance Pushes the Limit at SEMA 2012 with Turbo Charged 2013 Subaru BR-Z

Crawford Performance's race spec 2013 Subaru BR-Z displayed at SEMA 2012
Crawford Performance's race spec 2013 Subaru BR-Z displayed at SEMA 2012
With countless hours of thought and work behind them, Crawford Performance recently headed to Las Vegas, Nevada with the finished product trailered behind them. Rolling into the SEMA show, they were eager to show the build - a 2013 Subaru Spec C BR-Z.

This was the company's seventh year to show at the event, and they were proud to display a model that was a "test-bed" for their performance components. "It takes a lot of work in a short time frame," explained Quirt Crawford.

With very little time to produce the ultimate project car, it was essential that the crew had their ducks in a row and had a direction to travel. "We wanted to build the fastest road racing BR-Z in the United States. We have done project vehicles for Subaru of America and Scion, and we have had vehicles in other company's booths as well," he stated. "Our specialty is building winning race cars that look beautiful."
K&N provided a custom intake for the 2012 SEMA Show late model Subaru BR-Z
K&N provided a custom intake for the 2012 SEMA Show late model Subaru BR-Z


Although esthetics were of utmost importance to the company, what they dropped under the hood was of equal significance, as their ultimate goal is fast and showy. That in mind, Crawford Performance fully built a Turbo FA motor for the backbone of the project car's optimal capabilities.

During the build of the engine, it was crucial to install components that could withstand the rigors of screaming RPM's while performing their task flawlessly. That in mind, they attached pistons provided by JE to the crankshaft.

When the pistons popped up in the compression stroke, the NGK spark plugs would provide more than ample fire power to ensure the combustion process would play a role in their quest for speed and reliability.
Sponors played a big role in completing this 2012 Subaru BR-Z for the 2012 SEMA Show
Sponors played a big role in completing this 2012 Subaru BR-Z for the 2012 SEMA Show


Accepting nothing but perfection, Crawford Performance built a turbo kit for the vehicle as well. Understanding clearly, the rigors a high-performance engine experiences during the heat of a battle, they opted to attach a front mount Crawford Performance intercooler. They also added a high-pressure radiator surge tank to the mix.

The team considered an ECU (electronic control unit) by Vtune as an essential element of the vehicle reaching its peak performance.
The Subaru BR-Z is one of the hottest vehicles on the market and plenty of them were displayed at the 2012 SEMA Show
The Subaru BR-Z is one of the hottest vehicles on the market and plenty of them were displayed at the 2012 SEMA Show


Also aware of the importance of eliminating restriction, they focused on building the ultimate exhaust system. In turn Crawford Performance designed and mounted a full exhaust under the company demo.

The final piece to the puzzle provided by Crawford Performance was equally as impressive and as essential as the many other in-house parts they provided. The air/oil separator was a result of their ingenuity and know how as well.

For the demo car to achieve the team's goals without fail, it was crucial to choose fluids that could withstand an environment incredibly harsher than those produced by a stock engine. That in mind, they went with Motul for their fluid needs.
Crawford Performance's specilaty is improving performance and the 2013 Subaru BR-Z they displayed at SEMA 2012 is a prime example
Crawford Performance's specilaty is improving performance and the 2013 Subaru BR-Z they displayed at SEMA 2012 is a prime example


Of course, the filtering system was equally as important as any other aspect of the build, and K&N products would fit their needs to the jot and tittle. With K&N filters on board, worries of adequate air and oil flow were not an issue, and no worries had to be wasted on concerns that the internal components of the engine were running contaminant free.

"We use K&N air and oil filters on all of our race vehicles for the durability and performance increases," explained Crawford. "The first championship we won was in 1979, and our vehicle was equipped with a K&N filter."

Crawford Performance depended upon Exedy to provide a clutch that would meet their standards and needs. With the drive train under control, there were still a few more issues that, although not visible from the exterior, they were absolutely necessary.

The suspension was provided by Tein. Crawford Performance is obsessed with sheer speed, but they are no different from the average Joe in the fact that they appreciate the ability to be able to stop when the time arrives. That in mind, they turned to Brembo for the front and back brake needs.
This 2013 Subaru BR-Z was well received during SEMA 2012
This 2013 Subaru BR-Z was well received during SEMA 2012


The purpose of their next choice was actually two fold, it was crucial to choose wheels and tires that would perform at high speeds and under extreme conditions, but also important to choose products that looked good as well. That said, they went with rims by Work Wheels, and Toyo tires.

One would suspect that even though the build satisfied the crew at Crawford Performance, it was only human nature for them to anticipate how SEMA attendees would receive this stunning vehicle. On the other hand, this was not the company's first rodeo, and in turn their project was a hit.
The SEMA 2012 display vehicle for Motul was a 2013 Subaru BR-Z
The SEMA 2012 display vehicle for Motul was a 2013 Subaru BR-Z


"We were most impressed with the power output of the new FA motor found in this car," recalled Quirt Crawford. "The attendees were most impressed with the turbo system and the power it produces"

When asked about Crawford Performance's future goals, Crawford concluded, "We have a few irons in the fire, and expect next year to be a fun one."

Take a look at this 2012 Subaru STi from the 2011 SEMA Show.

Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.

Steve Burkett's 2012 SEMA Worthy Chrysler 300 is a Good Way to Kill Time

Steve Burkett's latest project, a 2012 Chrysler 300 V6 model, was displayed at the 2012 SEMA Show
Steve Burkett's latest project, a 2012 Chrysler 300 V6 model, was displayed at the 2012 SEMA Show
"Killing Time" is the theme of Steve Burkett's masterpiece. The 2012 Chrysler 300 3.6L V6 is his most recent work. He has spent countless hours on this vehicle and it has definitely paid off. Steve found his passion at a young age of 15 when he built his first car, a 1970 Camaro. The Camaro was specifically picked because it was the year he was born. Steve's vehicle preference is American cars. He is a local to K&N Engineering, growing up just outside of Riverside in Lake Elsinore, Ca.

SEMA 2012 had many late model vehicles on display and Steve Burkett's custom 2012 Chrysler 300 3.6 liter engine was one of them
SEMA 2012 had many late model vehicles on display and Steve Burkett's custom 2012 Chrysler 300 3.6 liter engine was one of them
Although Steve had a vision for his Chrysler 300 to show and shine, he also wanted it to be efficient so he could use it as his daily driver. He started by choosing the V6 engine over the V8, which has allowed him to have better fuel economy while being able to maintain good power.

Recently this car has been at the DUB Show in Los Angeles and Phoenix, SEMA 2012, and in the near future, can be seen at the "Severed Ties in the Southwest" show December 8th, DUB 2013 Season West Coast Sites, Extreme Auto fests as well as
With the help of sponsors, this 2012 Chrysler 300 3.6 liter really came to lif at SEMA 2012
With the help of sponsors, this 2012 Chrysler 300 3.6 liter really came to lif at SEMA 2012


Jenna Bears Foundation yearly car show 2013 which is one of Steve's favorite shows to attend. This car has also been featured in the DUB Magazine. Steve has done over 59 different shows and has won over 77 trophies. He has been at SEMA for the last 5 years and plans on attending many more in the future. Over these 5 years he has been able to provide 100 cars for the SEMA events. He is also a member of the Swift Car Club, which was established in 1995.

Late model, custom paint, big wheels, engine mods equates to 2012 SEMA worthy Chrysler 300
Late model, custom paint, big wheels, engine mods equates to 2012 SEMA worthy Chrysler 300
Steve has recently been able to work with several Japanese Auto blogs and had the opportunity to have the "Killing Time" Chrysler 300 drawn as a Cartoon by Hayato Tsuchiya. He was introduced to this artist when he had the chance of a lifetime to travel to Japan. "Killing Time" was also featured in J-Lug Magazine which is a Japanse premiere Dub Style Magazine.

What really makes this car pop is the candy apple red paint,over a base of galaxy grey; not to mention, the K&N air intake system, part 69-2544TP, improves horsepower. "The reason I choose K&N is because of the quality of their product and their great warranty," said Steve. He has put K&N products on almost all of his vehicles.

This 2012 Chrysler 300 V6 is a great daily driver and had the oportunity to make an appearance at the 2012 SEMA show
This 2012 Chrysler 300 V6 is a great daily driver and had the oportunity to make an appearance at the 2012 SEMA show
Engine:
K&N Typhoon air intake (69-2544TP)
Borla Exhaust
R1 Concepts Brake upgrade including MGP Caliper Covers

SEMA 2012 is the place to be when looking for top of the line show cars like this 2012 Chryaler 300
SEMA 2012 is the place to be when looking for top of the line show cars like this 2012 Chryaler 300
Exterior:
Xenon Body Kit
24" 2 Crave wheels and Toyo Tires
Complete Air Ride by LA Kustomz with Viair Compressors and Universal Air components
Dresden Grilles Package

Interior:
Custom Painted & Airbrushed engine bay by Monster Paint FX
Suede headliner by Backyard Interiors
Webasto Dual Panoramic Sunroof

Cartoon imaging is quite popular these days and it definitely gives a different perspective on this 2012 Chrysler 300 SEMA car
Cartoon imaging is quite popular these days and it definitely gives a different perspective on this 2012 Chrysler 300 SEMA car
Audio/ Visual:
Complete Competition Sound System by Kicker Car Audio

Check out these similar vehicles from prior SEMA shows:
Amber Logue Shows Off Custom 2011 Dodge Challenger at SEMA Show
Andrea Quegan Promotes Breast Cancer Awareness with 2011 Dodge Charger at SEMA Show 2009 Challenger RT Reborn as Project Twisted at SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada
Hot Wheels Die Cast K&N 1970 Plymouth Barracuda and 2009 Dodge Challenger Shine at SEMA

Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.

Alan Kenny Wins First NHRA Super Comp Championship with the Help of Son Jason Kenny

Alan Kenny recently drove his a Super Comp dragster to a 2012 NHRA Championship
Alan Kenny recently drove his a Super Comp dragster to a 2012 NHRA Championship
At 60 years old and after 39 years of drag racing, Alan Kenny won his first national championship.

He came into the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series season finale at Auto Club Raceway in Pomona, Calif., as the leader in the Super Comp standings.

Even though he didn't reach the final rounds of elimination at Pomona, he had a big enough lead to win the Super Comp championship.

"It's like a fairy tale season," Kenny said. "If you're a drag racer, the NHRA world championship is your World Series, your Super Bowl, whatever you want to call it. Every year, you lay in bed at night when you can't sleep thinking, you know, if I could just win a couple early, maybe I'd have a shot. This year I did."

Kenny might have won the Super Comp championship, but his son deserves an assist.

Jason Kenny won the Super Comp event in Las Vegas two weeks before the season finale in Pomona and all but guaranteed his dad the championship.

When Stefan Kondolay, second place in the Super Comp standings, lost to Matt Constant in Pomona, Alan Kenny was declared the Super Comp champion. But Kenny's championship season was well within reach after the races in Las Vegas.

Alan Kenny was knocked out in the first round of eliminations, but Jason Kenny went on an impressive run knocking out Kondolay in the first round. Luke Bogocki was also in contention for the Super Comp championship, but he was eliminated in the early rounds at Las Vegas.

Once Jason Kenny started advancing at Las Vegas, he said securing the championship for his dad was forefront in his mind.
Jason Kenny races along side his father, Alan Kenny in the NHRA Super Comp class
Jason Kenny races along side his father, Alan Kenny in the NHRA Super Comp class


"That was my plan," Jason Kenny said. "But when it actually happened, I was really nervous. Probably 10 to 15 minutes before the run, I knew I was going to race Stefan. Mentally I was going through all the possibilities. I was pretty nervous. I did want that, but for the 10, 15 minutes leading up to that, it was pretty nerve-wracking."

Jason Kenny and Bogocki were set up to meet in the semifinals. But Bogocki didn't advance to the semis. Jason Kenny beat Trevor Larson in a very tight final race. Kenny won in 9.069 seconds to Larson's 9.092.

"When Luke went out fourth or fifth round, the pressure was gone and I went on to win the race," Jason Kenny said. "I was very relaxed. Luke and Stefan were gone and that was the whole goal of the day. Just had fun after that."

Alan Kenny said he started using K&N air filters in his first dragsters and gradually incorporated K&N oil filters in his race cars.

"Been using them for a long time," Alan Kenny said. "Used them for years and loving them."

Alan Kenny, who is from Kingston, Ontario, Canada, said his drag racing team started fast in 2012, but it wasn't until the races at Norwalk, Ohio, that his season pointed toward a championship.

"I ended up winning Norwalk and thinking, OK, I really do have a shot," Alan Kenny said. "It's been just all good since then. I won a big bracket race in August, a 25 grander. A week or two before, I blew up a motor, which is close to 25 grand. It's one check right there."

When he led the Super Comp standings with two races to go in the season, Kenny's confidence began to grow.

"The last month or more, I kept saying if I'm still leading the points heading for Vegas, it would be really good. And I was," Alan Kenny said. "We got to Vegas, if I'm still leading the points heading to Pomona, it would be really, really good. And I was."

As hot as he was as a driver, Alan Kenny said having his son roll through the Las Vegas races was equally as impressive.

"The best defense in these categories is a good offense," Alan Kenny said. "You can't control what the other racers do. As long as one of us is winning that means the guys chasing me can't be winning. That was huge."

Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world.